Good buddies Tomas Holmstrom and Nicklas Lidstrom set to reach milestones on the same night

AP File PhotoDetroit's Tomas Holmstrom will play his 1,000th NHL game tonight

DETROIT – They're long-time buddies who hang out together, share rides to the rink and combine on goals.

So it's only fitting that Nicklas Lidstrom and Tomas Holmstrom will reach games played milestones on the same night, tonight, when the Detroit Red Wings host the Anaheim Ducks at Joe Louis Arena (7:30, Fox Sports Detroit).

“Real nice night for both of them,'' coach Mike Babcock said. “I was bugging Tommy, that he missed the game a while back just so he could (reach his milestone) at the same time as Nick. They do everything together, so why not do this together.''

Babcock added, “Anytime you get a chance to tie Mr. Delvecchio it's a special, special thing. I don't know if Nick wants to hang around long enough to tie Gordie, but good for us and good for them. They've been very important parts of this team and they still are with leadership from Nick and just the enthusiasm and dive Homer brings to the rink every day.''

AP File PhotoRed Wings' captain Nicklas Lidstrom will tie Alex Delvecchio for second place on the club's all-time list for games played when he appears in his 1,549th contest tonight.

The Red Wings will be seeking their 19th consecutive victory at home, which would be one short of the NHL record. The Ducks are 11-2-2 in their past 15 games but are 10 points out of the eighth and final playoff spot in the Western Conference.

Holmstrom said his father couldn't make it in from Sweden because he had to work. His family will be watching on TV.

“It's a big day for him,'' teammate Henrik Zetterberg said. “You could tell when he came in here. He was bouncing in here, a big smile on his face, all jacked up.''

Lidstrom, meanwhile, said he's proud to be tying Delvecchio.

“He's a legend in this town,'' Lidstrom said. “That means I've played a lot of years and a lot of games with the Wings.''

Delvecchio praised Lidstrom.

“He's a great hockey player,'' Delvecchio said. “To be truthful, I didn't even know I had any record for playing games. But I can't think of a better person to (pass him) than Nick.

“He's not that rough and tough on the ice, but he handles himself, checks well, great shot. He's just a leader out there.''